Exercise training in childhood cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

A Systematic Review of Telehealth-Based Pediatric Cancer Rehabilitation Interventions on Disability

Background: Telehealth is an emerging method which may overcome barriers to rehabilitation access for pediatric cancer survivors (aged ≤19 years). This systematic review aimed to examine telehealth-based rehabilitation interventions aimed at preventing, maintaining, or improving disability in pediatric cancer survivors. Methods: We performed systematic searches in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and CINAHL Plus between 1994 and 2022. Eligible studies included telehealth-based interventions assessing disability outcomes in pediatric cancers. Results: Database searches identified 4,040 records. Nine unique interventions met the eligibility criteria. Telehealth delivery methods included telephone (n = 6), email (n = 3), mobile health applications (n = 3), social media (n = 3), videoconferencing (n = 2), text messaging (n = 2), active video gaming (n = 2), and websites (n = 2). Interventions focused on physical activity (n = 8) or self-management (n = 1). Outcomes assessing disability varied (n = 6). Three studies reported statistically and clinically significant results. Narrative synthesis of findings was constructed based on the Picker's principles for patient-centered care: (1) values, preferences, and needs; (2) involve family and friends; (3) coordination of care; (4) provide social support; (5) holistic well-being; and (6) information and communication. Conclusions: Telehealth-based rehabilitation interventions for pediatric cancer survivors is an emerging research area with potential to improve disability outcomes. Adequately powered trials with consistency in disability outcome measures are warranted. Additional research is needed to determine the effectiveness and best practices for telehealth-based pediatric cancer rehabilitation.

Availability and adaption of exercise programs in pediatric oncology during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond: a nationwide follow-up survey of providers in Germany

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented major challenges to clinical practice and delivery of care programs throughout all health care systems. Exercise programs, that are implemented in most centers for pediatric oncology in Germany, are a relatively new care program however with high clinical impact and health benefits.

Objective

The impact and consequences of the pandemic on the delivery and availability of exercise programs in Germany for pediatric cancer patients and survivors are unknown. A national survey analyzed restrictions, challenges and novel approaches of exercise program delivery and scientific research.

Method

A two-stage online survey was distributed to providers of exercise programs (acute clinics, non-clinical institutions, rehabilitation facilities) via the established Network ActiveOncoKids. Data was collected during the pandemic in 2022 and 2023 using a combination of open and closed questions.

Results

In total, n = 27 (response rate: 82%) and n = 17 (response rate: 63%) providers participated in the first and second survey, respectively. Findings pointed out restrictions in 85% of all exercise programs in 2020 and 2021, with slight reductions in 2022. During pandemic, restrictions with major impact arose within exercise offers during follow-up and declined gradually. Whereas restrictions within the setting of acute therapy had medium or minor impact but persisted beyond. Delivery of provided exercise programs necessitated adaptions, including digital methods, supervised interventions from a distance and change of locations.

Discussion

The findings highlight the adaptability, the demand and the potential of exercise programs in pediatric oncology. We assume that exercise professionals have used the pandemic-related challenges to review and modify existing concepts and made adaptations according to local conditions and novel tools for the provision of exercise programs. Nevertheless, a conspicuous lack of exercise-related care has become evident in certain patients and survivors. Further expansion of programs is imperative to address and accommodate all pertinent needs.

Children with cancer and their cardiorespiratory fitness and physical function-the long-term effects of a physical activity program during treatment: a multicenter non-randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

We aimed to determine the effects of a classmate-supported, supervised, in-hospital physical activity program during treatment primarily on cardiorespiratory fitness and secondarily on physical function.

METHODS

A multicenter non-randomized controlled intervention study including children diagnosed with cancer, 6-18 years at diagnosis treated with chemo-/radiotherapy. The intervention comprised (i) an educational session on cancer in the child's school class; (ii) selection of two "ambassadors"-classmates who were co-admitted, supporting the child's everyday hospital life; and (iii) supervised in-hospital physical activity from diagnosis and throughout intensive treatment. One-year post-treatment, physical testing included cardiorespiratory fitness (primary outcome), Sit-to-Stand test, Timed-Up-and-Go, and Handgrip Strength.

RESULTS

The intervention group included 75 of 120 children (61% boys, 13.4 ± 3.1 years); the control groups included 33 of 58 children with cancer (58% boys, 13.5 ± 2.5 years), and 94 age- and sex-matched children without a cancer history. One-year post-treatment, cardiorespiratory fitness tended to be higher in the intervention group (37.0 ± 6.0 mL/kg/min) than in the patient control group with cancer (32.3 ± 9.7 mL/kg/min) (mean difference 4.7 [0.4 to 9.1], p = 0.034). The intervention group performed better in the secondary outcomes. Compared with community controls, both patient groups had lower cardiorespiratory fitness. The patient control group had lower Sit-to-Stand, Timed Up and Go, and Handgrip Strength, while the intervention group had strength comparable to that of the community controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Peer-supported, supervised, in-hospital physical activity during treatment may improve cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength 1-year post-treatment in children with cancer; however, survivors continue to have lower cardiorespiratory fitness than community controls.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Children with cancer may benefit from in-hospital physical activity in improving long-term cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength.

Physical Activity Among Adolescent Cancer Survivors: The PACCS Study

OBJECTIVES

Physical activity (PA) may modify risks of late effects after cancer. We aimed to examine levels of PA and sedentary time (ST) in a large, international sample of adolescent childhood cancer survivors in relation to sociodemographic and cancer-related factors and compare levels of PA and ST to reference cohorts.

METHODS

Survivors from any cancer diagnosis who had completed cancer treatment ≥1 year ago, aged 9 to 16 years, were eligible for the multicenter Physical Activity in Childhood Cancer Survivors study. PA and ST were measured by ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometers. We performed linear regression analyses to assess factors associated with moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and ST, and compared marginal means of total PA, MVPA, and ST in 432 survivors to sex- and age-stratified references (2-year intervals) using immediate t-tests for aggregated data.

RESULTS

Among survivors, 34% fulfilled the World Health Organization's PA recommendation of ≥60 min of daily MVPA on average and their ST was 8.7 hours per day. Being female, older, overweight, a survivor of central nervous system tumor, or having experienced relapse were associated with lower MVPA and/or higher ST. Generally, male survivors spent less time in MVPA compared with references, whereas female survivors had similar levels. Both male and female survivors had higher ST than references in nearly all age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The low PA and high ST in this large sample of adolescent childhood cancer survivors is worrisome. Combined, our results call for targeted interventions addressing both PA and ST in follow-up care after childhood cancer.

Chronic pain in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer: the challenge of mitigating the pain and the potential of integrating exercise into pain management

BACKGROUND

Pain is one of the most common and distressing symptoms experienced by children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. It is vital that children and adolescents receive adequate pain management early on in their cancer treatments to mitigate pain and cancer-related symptoms. Exercise training shows particular promise in the management of acute and chronic pain among children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer.

METHODS

This position paper comes to outline the challenge of mitigating pain in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer, and the potential benefits of integrating exercise training to the management of chronic pain in this population in need.

RESULTS

Integrating exercise training into the care and pain management of children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer who have chronic pain would have the advantage of addressing several shortcomings of pain medication. Pain medication aims to temporarily manage or reduce pain; it does not have the potential to directly improve a patient's physical condition in the way that exercise training can. The current paucity of data available on the use of exercise training as a complementary treatment to pain medications to reduce chronic pain in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer allows only for hypotheses on the effectiveness of this pain management modality.

CONCLUSION

More research on this important topic is necessary and mitigating pain effectively while also reducing the use of opioid pain medication is an important goal shared by patients, their families, clinicians, and researchers alike. Future research in this area has great potential to inform clinical care, clinical care guidelines, and policy-making decisions for pain management in children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer who experience chronic pain.

Effect of concurrent training on physical performance and quality of life in children with malignancy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the intervention effect of concurrent training on children with malignant tumors to provide evidence for prescribing exercise for children with malignant tumors.

Methods

Twelve databases were searched from inception to October 15, 2022. Two researchers independently screened the literature, evaluated the quality, extracted the data, and performed the meta-analysis using R.

Result

A total of nine randomized controlled trials involving 371 children were included in this study. The meta-analysis revealed that muscle strength was significantly greater in the exercise group compared to the usual care group [SMD = 0.26, 95% CI (0.04, 0.48), P = 0.023], with subgroup analysis showing no significant difference in upper limb [SMD = 0.13, 95% CI (−0.17, 0.43), P = 0.318] and a considerable difference in lower limb strength [SMD = 0.41, 95% CI (0.08, 0.74), P = 0.015]. Physical activity [SMD = 0.57, 95% CI (0.03, 1.1), P = 0.038], timed up and down stairs test [SMD = −1.22, 95% CI (−2.04, −0.4), P = 0.004], 6-min walking ability [SMD = 0.75, 95% CI (0.38, 1.11), P < 0.01], quality of life [SMD = 0.28, 95% CI (0.02, 0.53), P = 0.033], and cancer-related fatigue [SMD = −0.53, 95% CI (−0.86, −0.19), P = 0.002] were significantly better than the usual care group. There were no significant differences in peak oxygen uptake [SMD = 0.13, 95% CI (−0.18, 0.44), P = 0.397], depression [SMD = 0.06, 95% CI (−0.38, 0.5), P = 0.791], and withdrawal rates [RR = 0.59, 95% CI (0.21, 1.63), P = 0.308] between the two groups.

Conclusion

Concurrent training could improve physical performance for children with malignancy but had no significant effect on mental health. Because the quality level of evidence is mostly very low, future high-quality randomized controlled trials are required to confirm these findings.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=364140, identifier CRD42022308176.

Effects of Exercise and Physical Activity Levels on Childhood Cancer: An Umbrella Review

Patients and survivors of childhood cancer experience adverse effects related to the disease and its treatment. These adverse effects are associated with both physiological and psychological health. Exercise helps manage the side effects and improve the health outcomes. The objective of this umbrella review is to search the current literature in the context of exercise and physical activity as complementary interventions on pediatric cancer and to provide comprehensive information about the derived health outcomes. A literature search was conducted on the Cochrane, PubMed, and Embase databases for systematic reviews published up to January 2023. Moreover, a hand search of reference lists was performed. We included participants under 19 years of age at diagnosis of any type of childhood cancer, without restriction on the type or phase of treatment, who participated in exercise interventions. The results showed a beneficial impact on fatigue, muscle strength, aerobic capacity, activity and participation levels, psychosocial health, cardiovascular/cardiorespiratory fitness, physical function, bone mineral density, and brain volume and structure, with limited and not serious adverse effects. These findings documented that exercise interventions had a positive effect on many physiological and psychological health outcomes in pediatric cancer patients and survivors.

Adherence, safety, and satisfaction of a cardio-oncology rehabilitation program framework versus community exercise training for cancer survivors: findings from the CORE trial

PURPOSE

To assess safety, satisfaction, and overall adherence of a center-based cardiac rehabilitation (CBCR) program for cancer survivors at increased cardiovascular (CV) risk, compared to community-based exercise training (CBET).

METHODS

The CORE study was a single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial enrolling cancer survivors exposed to cardiotoxic cancer treatment and/or with previous CV disease. Participants were randomized to an 8-week CBCR program or CBET, twice a week. Overall feasibility (consent, retention, and completion rates), intervention adherence (percentage of exercise sessions attended), and safety were assessed. Adverse events (AEs) were registered, and participants' satisfaction was measured at the end of the study.

RESULTS

Eighty out of 116 potentially eligible individuals were included; consent rate was 72.4%, and 77 (96.2%) started the study (retention rate 100% in CBCR vs 92.5% in CBET); completion rate was 92.5%. Intervention adherence was higher in CBCR (90.3 ± 11.8% vs 68.4 ± 22.1%, p < 0.001). Exercise-related AEs were mainly related to musculoskeletal conditions in both groups (7 in CBCR vs 20 in CBET, p < 0.001), accounting for exercise prescription modification in 47 sessions (18 (3.3%) in CBCR vs 29 (7.2%) in CBET, p = 0.006), none motivating exercise discontinuation. No participants reported major CV events. Overall, the satisfaction with the different aspects of the programs (e.g., expectations, monitoring) was higher in the CBCR.

CONCLUSION

This exploratory analysis of the CORE trial suggests that both exercise-based interventions are feasible and safe in this setting. The higher intervention adherence and patient satisfaction in CBCR suggest that this comprehensive approach could be of interest in this population.

Physical fitness throughout chemotherapy in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and lymphoma

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma (ALL/LBL) and its treatment interfere with normal physical functioning. However, it remains unclear how physical fitness (PF) is affected throughout treatment for ALL/LBL. Sixty-two patients (2.1 to 18.3 years) treated for ALL/LBL underwent four physical tests at nine timepoints from baseline up to 6 months post-treatment. We assessed muscle strength of the quadriceps and tibialis anterior, standing broad jump test (SBJ) for functional mobility and six-minute walk test (6MWT) for endurance. One-sample t-tests were used to compare our results to the norm at each timepoint. Norm-referenced Z-scores were predicted based on time, risk group and age at diagnosis, using linear mixed models. Quadriceps strength, SBJ and 6MWT scores were significantly lower than norm values at all timepoints from diagnosis up to 6 months after maintenance therapy. Significant decreases over time were encountered for quadriceps strength and SBJ, mainly occurring after induction therapy (F = 3.568, p < 0.001 and F = 2.699, p = 0.008, respectively). Age at diagnosis was a significant predictor for tibialis anterior strength (F = 5.266, p = 0.025), SBJ (F = 70.422, p < 0.001) and 6MWT (F = 15.890, p < 0.001) performances, with lower results in adolescents at all timepoints. Six months after treatment, quadriceps strength, 6MWT and SBJ scores remained below expected levels.

CONCLUSION

The decreased quadriceps strength, functional mobility and endurance at all timepoints, with a large deterioration following induction therapy, suggest the need for early interventions, specifically in the adolescent population. The continued low results 6 months after therapy emphasise the importance of long-term rehabilitation.

WHAT IS KNOWN

•Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is the most common type of cancer among children, with increasing survival rates due to therapeutic improvements. •Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma and its treatment can cause muscle weakness, neuromuscular toxicity and a decreased cardiopulmonary fitness. Together with physical inactivity, this can result in a decreased physical fitness.

WHAT IS NEW

•Quadriceps strength, functional mobility and endurance are decreased during treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma. The lowest measurements are observed after induction therapy, suggesting the need for early interventions. •We observed continued lower results for quadriceps strength, functional mobility and endurance at the end of treatment, up to 6 months after therapy, supporting the need for long-term rehabilitation.

Exercise Preferences in Young Adults with Cancer-The YOUEX Study

(1) Background: Strong evidence supports the persuasive positive effects of exercise for cancer patients and survivors. Different approaches of exercise programs have been established; however, the special interests of young adults (YAs) with cancer have rarely been considered in exercise interventions. Therefore, the study YOUng EXercisers (YOUEX) aimed to investigate exercise preferences in YAs. (2) Methods: YOUEX was a three-arm, patient preference-based non-randomized, longitudinal, pre-post exercise intervention, offering three different exercise modules to YAs during or after acute therapy (Module 1: online supervised group-based (M1); Module 2: online unsupervised (M2); Module 3: in-person supervised (M3)). The intervention period was 12 weeks with another 12-week follow-up period, the modules could be changed or amended after 6 and 12 weeks. (3) Results: 92 YAs were allocated to the study. At baseline, 50 YAs (54%) chose M2, 32 YAs (35%) M1 and 10 YAs (11%) M3. The analysis revealed high acceptability and feasibility of the online exercise programs (M1, M2). There was a high impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the execution of M3. YAs showed diverse preferences in module selection due to differences in, e.g., cancer therapy status or favored level of supervision. (4) Conclusions: YAs need personalized exercise programs that consider their individual interests and needs. Online exercise programs can be a promising addition to existing exercise opportunities. They are an effective way to increase physical activity levels in YAs.

A National Implementation Approach for Exercise as Usual Care in Pediatric and Adolescent Oncology: Network ActiveOncoKids

The diagnosis of cancer as well as accompanying acute and late effects of treatment are influencing physical activity behavior of patients with childhood cancer and survivors. Research has shown that a pediatric cancer diagnosis is associated with impairments of physical performance, and function, as well as reduced physical, and psychosocial, health conditions. From an ethical perspective, lack of knowledge of health care providers, lack of physical activity promotion, and environmental, and structural barriers to physical activity restrict children's right to move and actively engage in physical activities. Network ActiveOncoKids is a German-wide initiative with the main goal of enabling children, adolescents, and young adults with exercise opportunities during and after cancer treatment. Since the network's foundation in 2012, Network ActiveOncoKids focuses on: (1) physical activity support for patients and families, (2) policy change to establish structures and guidelines, and (3) generating evidence through scientific projects. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of Network ActiveOncoKids structure, aims, and projects. This topical review will highlight the network's structural development, research work, and implementation progress of exercise programs for patients with pediatric cancer and survivors, link international collaborations, and discuss future directions.

Multidisciplinary Network ActiveOncoKids guidelines for providing movement and exercise in pediatric oncology: Consensus-based recommendations

BACKGROUND

Pediatric cancer leads to reduced participation in exercise and only few patients comply with national physical activity recommendations. Physically inactive behavior hinders motor development and increases physical and psychological adverse effects of therapy and incidence of sequelae. Currently, there is neither nationwide coverage nor uniform level of knowledge regarding exercise promotion. The objective of the guideline is to facilitate qualified exercise interventions through standardized procedures in addition to regular physiotherapy and overall avoid physical inactivity in pediatric cancer patients.

METHODS

This guideline addresses the multidisciplinary treatment team and informs physiotherapists and decision-makers in tertiary care hospitals and health insurance companies. The requirements of the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany were followed. Contents were based on best practice experience of experts, patient advocates, as well as on scientific evidence.

RESULTS

The guideline includes 11 recommendations. Recommendations 1-4 declare the relevance of implementing exercise interventions and address general framework conditions. Recommendations 5-11 focus on the design of exercise programs, prevention and safety issues, relative contraindications for specific training loads, and options to overcome barriers to exercise.

CONCLUSION

This guideline summarizes existing and established structures and evidence in the context of movement and exercise in pediatric oncology. It takes into consideration the rights, varying needs, and characteristics of children and adolescents as well as national and international experience in this field. In the future, relevant research gaps need to be addressed by high-quality intervention studies to provide the scientific background for a stronger evidence-based guideline.

Efficacy of interdisciplinary rehabilitation in child cancer survivors: Impact on physical fitness, fatigue and body composition after 1-year follow-up

OBJECTIVE

Childhood cancer survivors experience reduced physical activity level, participation as well as health-related quality of life. This prospective, pre-/post-intervention and follow-up cohort study aims to determine the efficacy of an interdisciplinary rehabilitation on improving physical fitness, fatigue and body composition.

METHODS

A total of 24 childhood cancer survivors (mean age: 12.15 years ± 3.2; 14 females; 10 males) were recruited 6 months after medical treatment and received a 4-month interdisciplinary intervention. Cardiorespiratory fitness (PredVO_2peak and PredLoad_max ), body composition (dry lean weight) and quality of life (general fatigue) were assessed at baseline, post-intervention and 1-year follow-up. Linear mixed models were used to analyse data.

RESULTS

Linear mixed modelling revealed a significant main effect of time on predicted maximal load (F = 13.189, df = 36.179, p < 0.001), dry lean weight (F = 64.813, df = 37.019, p < 0.001) but also significant improvement of general fatigue score (-9.039 ± 4.300, 95% CI -17.741 to -0.336, p = 0.042), indicating a decline in general fatigue.

CONCLUSION

With emerging evidence that physical activity is safe and feasible, together with increasing numbers of childhood cancer survivors at risk for long-term chronic co-morbidities, this study advocates for better access to interdisciplinary rehabilitation programmes in order to improve their physical condition and their body composition and reduce fatigue.

Promoting positive physical activity behaviors for children and adolescents undergoing acute cancer treatment: Development of the CanMOVE intervention using the Behavior Change Wheel

Background

Increasing participation in physical activity has the potential to improve outcomes for children and adolescents with cancer during treatment and into survivorship. The aim of this study is to outline the theoretical process behind development of CanMOVE, a behavior change intervention designed to increase physical activity for children and adolescents with cancer.

Study design

This study followed a theoretical design process consistent with the Behavior Change Wheel to inform the design of a complex intervention.

Materials and methods

The three stages of the Behavior Change Wheel intervention design process include: (1) understanding physical activity behavior within the pediatric cancer setting, (2) identifying potential intervention functions, and (3) identifying appropriate behavior change and implementation strategies. Qualitative and behavior change literature relevant to the pediatric cancer treatment setting were used to inform each stage.

Results

An individualized and flexible approach to physical activity promotion that considers intrinsic factors specific to the child/adolescent and their environment is required. Fifteen behavioral change strategies were identified to form the intervention components of CanMOVE. Implementation strategies were identified to build motivation, opportunity and capacity toward increasing physical activity behaviors. Key intervention components of CanMOVE include standardized assessment and monitoring (physical activity, physical function, and health-related quality of life), provision of an activity monitor to both child/adolescent and parent, and one-on-one capacity building sessions with a healthcare professional. Capacity building sessions include education, goal setting, an active supervised physical activity session, barrier identification and problem solving, and action planning.

Conclusion

CanMOVE is a novel approach to physical activity promotion in the pediatric cancer treatment setting. The use of a theoretical intervention design process will aid evaluation and replication of CanMOVE when it is assessed for feasibility in a clinical setting. The design process utilized here can be used as a guide for future intervention development.

Physical activity in 9-15 year-old pediatric cancer survivors compared to a nationwide sample

INTRODUCTION

Sufficient physical activity (PA) has the potential to mitigate late effects of cancer, but objective data of PA levels in adolescents are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in PA behavior between childhood cancer survivors (CCS) and healthy peers.

METHODS

PA levels of n = 74 CCS and n = 1304 healthy peers from the MoMo study aged 9-15 years were assessed with validated objective accelerometry and group means were compared. A binary multiple logistic regression was performed to investigate the potential predictors of PA.

RESULTS

CCS spent significantly more time sedentary (p < 0.001) and less time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (p = 0.002) compared to the healthy cohort. Subgroup analysis revealed the largest deviations of PA levels for CCS aged 9-11 years who fulfilled international PA recommendations on significantly fewer days than MoMo (p < 0.01). Health conditions seem to be a predictor concerning the fulfillment of international PA recommendations by the WHO (p = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified vulnerable groups which seem to require targeted exercise and health behavior change programs to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary time. The presence of treatment sequelae as a significant predictor of insufficient physical activity underlines the need of multidisciplinary supportive care approaches.

Functioning of Children and Adolescents with Cancer

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the functioning of children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. This was a cross-sectional, observational study, with children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer, from 2 to 18 years of age, of both sexes, invited to participate in the city of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT) questionnaire was applied to the caregivers to assess the functioning of the participants, in four domains: daily activities, mobility, social/cognitive, and responsibility. In total, 33 children and adolescents participated, of both sexes, with a mean age of 9.23 years. The results showed that in the mobility category, participants older than 8 years presented worse functioning (OR = 22.000, 95% CI = 3.415-141.733, p = 0.0001). Children older than 8 years of age and adolescents with different types of cancer showed a higher chance of presenting lower mobility than their normal peers of the same age and compared with children under 8 years of age. Understanding the impact of childhood cancer is important for the physiotherapist to determine treatment strategies for this population who live with dysfunctions left by the cancer treatment.

Design and Evaluation of an Outdoor Exercise Program for Pediatric Cancer Survivors

Exercise programs for young people after cancer are not part of regular oncological care. This study describes and evaluates a regional outdoor exercise program and presents data with regard to the promoting and inhibiting factors for participation among pediatric cancer survivors. Exercise options, number of participants, and the cohort were evaluated descriptively for one year. A self-developed questionnaire was used to evaluate satisfaction, mood, motivations, and barriers to exercise. Overall N = 26 survivors (14.6 ± 5.5 years) participated in at least one activity in 2019 including try-out days (N = 10) and active weekend camps (N = 2). No adverse events occurred in 302 physical activity hours. Twenty-one survivors participated in the survey. The largest motivational aspect to participate was “to try out a new sport” (83.9%). Survivors reported “good mood”, and ‘being happy’ after exercising. The largest barrier was concern about ‘not being able to keep up with others’ (38.1%). Around one-third (try-out day) and 50% (active weekend camp) of survivors did not feel confident to continue exercising outside the supervised exercise oncology program. This survey shows high enthusiasm for this exercise program with different outdoor activities and suggests that similar interventions may be accepted by this population.

Supervised Exercise Interventions in Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) may suffer from a multitude of health impairments, resulting in a compromised quality of life (QoL). This review’s objective was to examine CCSs’ adherence to supervised exercise training interventions and the impact of these interventions on health outcomes. Methods: The following databases were searched in May 2022: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. The included studies were limited to randomized controlled trials (RCTs), published in English involving CCSs aged 18 years and below. Results: Nine RCTs (n = 642 participants) were included in the systematic review, and seven of them (n = 551 participants) were included in the meta-analysis. Both the mean retention rate and adherence to the supervised exercise interventions were 87%. Supervised exercise interventions significantly improved muscle strength (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.42, p = 0.03), level of daily physical activity (SMD = 1.05, p < 0.001), body mass index (BMI) (mean difference (MD) = 1.06, p = 0.03), and fatigue (SMD = −0.44, p < 0.001), while there was no statistical significance in the quality of life (QoL) (SMD = 0.21, p = 0.20). Conclusions: The adherence of CCSs to supervised exercise interventions is high, and supervised exercise interventions are safe and effective.

Evidencia del ejercicio en el tratamiento de la fatiga relacionada al cáncer infantil. Revisión temática

Objetivo Recopilar la evidencia más reciente que soporte el uso del ejercicio y la actividad física para disminuir la fatiga relacionada al cáncer infantil. Métodos Se llevó a cabo una búsqueda electrónica de literatura no mayor a cinco años. Posteriormente, los artículos se agruparon en categorías por tipo de estudio y se analizaron sus resultados de acuerdo con el objetivo planteado. Resultados Fueron incluidos 16 artículos de diferentes diseños, incluyendo estudios clínicos y revisiones sistemáticas. De manera general, se muestran diferencias significativas en favor del ejercicio para disminuir la fatiga; también se reportan efectos positivos en otros aspectos como la movilidad funcional y la calidad de vida. Conclusión Se respalda la idea de continuar generando evidencias para conocer de manera más puntual la dosificación del ejercicio dependiendo de todas las variables que se pueden presentar en el pediátrico oncológico.

Interactive Video Games as a Method to Increase Physical Activity Levels in Children Treated for Leukemia

Despite the beneficial effect of exercise, children treated for cancer do not engage in sufficient physical activity. It is necessary to search for attractive forms of physical activity, including interactive video games (IVGs). The aim of this study was to verify the effectiveness of the rehabilitation model developed by the authors based on the use of IVGs in children undergoing leukemia treatment. The study included a group of 21 children aged 7–13 years (12 boys, 9 girls) undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (n = 13) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (n = 8). The children were randomly assigned to an intervention group and a control group. To assess the level of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), each child participated in a Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test. Daily physical activity was assessed using the HBSC questionnaire. The study also used the Children’s Effort Rating Table Scale (CERT) to assess the intensity of physical effort. The children in the intervention group participated in 12 sessions of. The study participants managed to complete all stages of a progressive training program, which confirmed the feasibility of such physical effort by patients with cancer. Pediatric patients reported that the IVG training required a light to moderate physical effort despite high values of energy expenditure (EE).

Experience of childhood cancer: A narrative inquiry

PURPOSE

To more fully understand the possible impact of childhood cancer on a young person's life through their own story.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Using Connelly and Clandinin's narrative inquiry method, a participant named Noelle was engaged in a series of narrative interviews and a creative self-expression activity about her cancer experience when she was 12. Her story was examined through the three-dimensional space of experience (person, place, and time), and analyzed using Erikson's Psychosocial Stages of Development framework theoretical lens.

RESULTS

Two significant narrative patterns emerged: identity and relationships. Although the physical effects of the cancer were successfully treated, the impact of this disease impacted Noelle's own psychosocial development as she was trying to evolve her relationships with peers and family, while grappling with her new identity as a cancer patient.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Healthcare professionals need to intentionally increase their sensitivity to adolescent patients' lived experience of cancer. More specifically, there is a need for further education of healthcare professionals on the psychosocial impact of cancer in both the immediate and long-term trajectory of the cancer disease process.

Effect of virtual reality-based exercise intervention on sleep quality in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and healthy siblings: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Sleep is one of the important measurements of the quality of life for children especially suffering from a chronic illness such as cancer. Our aim was to determine the changes in sleep quality and to investigate the effect of virtual reality-based exercise (VRBE) approaches on sleep in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) off treatment.

METHOD

The participants (ALL and healthy siblings) were evaluated for sleep quality with polysomnography and "Children's Sleep Habit Questionnaire" before and after 12 weeks. The study randomized into two groups: an exercise group who received VRBE in two days in a week, 45 min of each session for 12 weeks and an control group who were managed with supportive measures. The VRBE comprised of aerobic exercise in four different games by Nintendo Wii Fit Plus®.

RESULTS

This randomized controlled trial was carried out on 38 participants. Before intervention, ALL patients (n = 24) and healthy siblings (n = 14) had similar sleep quality in terms of polysomnography and Children's Sleep Habit Questionnaire findings. After intervention, total time asleep (p = 0.023), respiratory disturbance index of hypopnea (p = 0.005), apnea/hypopnea index (p = 0.008), and number of apnea (p = 0.028) statistically significant improved.

SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS

Patients with ALL off treatment had similar values of sleep quality with healthy siblings. Novel types of exercises like VRBE have positive effects on sleep disorders in children with ALL and also healthy siblings. Future studies are needed comparing the different types of interventions.

A Bout of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) in Children and Adolescents during Acute Cancer Treatment-A Pilot Feasibility Study

Low- and moderate-intensity exercise is safe and feasible during childhood cancer treatment. The feasibility of a bout of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in this population has not been analyzed to date. Pediatric cancer patients aged between 6 and 18 years were selected based on clinical conditions to perform ten sets of 15 s HIIT (>90% of estimated maximal heart rate (HRmax)) and 1 min active recovery on a bicycle ergometer within the first three chemotherapy courses. We assessed safety and feasibility criteria and the following parameters: perceived exertion rate, heart rate, and lactate and adrenaline concentrations. Out of 212 eligible patients, 11 patients aged 13.9 ± 3.6 years (n = 7 ♂) with lymphoma, leukemia, rhabdomyosarcoma, nephroblastoma, and synovial sarcoma completed the bout of HIIT without serious adverse events. During exercise, patients reached a BORG value maxima of 16 ± 1.2, and their heart rates rose from 78 ± 17 beats per minute (bpm) at rest to 178 ± 12 bpm after exercise (90 ± 6% estimated HRmax). The power-to-weight ratio was 2 ± 0.5 W/kg (watt per kilogram). Blood lactate concentrations increased from 1.09 ± 0.50 mmol/L (millimole per liter) at rest to 5.05 ± 1.88 mmol/L post-exercise. Our preliminary data suggest that HIIT is applicable only in a small number of childhood cancer patients. Individually adapted exercise protocols for patients with multiple impairments are needed.

Adverse Events Reporting of Clinical Trials in Exercise Oncology Research (ADVANCE): Protocol for a Scoping Review

Introduction

Adequate, transparent, and consistent reporting of adverse events (AEs) in exercise oncology trials is critical to assess the safety of exercise interventions for people following a cancer diagnosis. However, there is little understanding of how AEs are reported in exercise oncology trials. Thus, we propose to conduct a scoping review to summarise and evaluate current practice of reporting of AEs in published exercise oncology trials with further exploration of factors associated with inadequate reporting of AEs. The study findings will serve to inform the need for future research on standardisation of the definition, collection, and reporting of AEs for exercise oncology research.

Materials and Methods

The ADVANCE (ADverse eVents reporting of clinicAl trials iN exerCise oncology rEsearch) study will be conducted and reported following the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews guideline. Any type of clinical trial involving an exercise intervention in people living with and beyond cancer with a full-text report in English will be included. Six electronic databases (Embase, PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science Core Collection, SPORTDiscus, and CINAHL Plus) will be searched for studies. Two independent review authors will assess eligibility of identified studies, chart data using pre-established extraction forms, and evaluate adequacy of reporting of AEs-related data against a 20-item scoring checklist derived from the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) harms extension. We will summarise results using descriptive and inferential analysis methods.

Ethics and Dissemination

No ethics approval will be required to conduct the ADVANCE study owing to inclusion of only published data. The study results will be disseminated via publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and internationa  conferences.

Systematic Review Registration

Open Science Framework: https://osf.io/NXEJD/ (doi:10.17605/OSF.IO/NXEJD).

Effects of strength exercise interventions on activities of daily living, motor performance, and physical activity in children and adolescents with leukemia or non-Hodgkin lymphoma: Results from the randomized controlled ActiveADL Study

OBJECTIVES

Pediatric patients with cancer experience impairments in muscle strength and physical activity (PA) that may reduce autonomy during hospitalization. To determine the effects of strength exercise interventions on the accomplishment of activities of daily living (ADLs), motor performance, and PA in children with leukemia or non-Hodgkin lymphoma, we randomly allocated patients (4-18 years) immediately after diagnosis into two exercise groups.

METHODS

The intervention group (IG; n = 21) received a specific strength training combined with a standard care exercise program, whereas the control group (CG; n = 20) was provided standard care exercise program without any targeted muscle strengthening. After the baseline visit, participants were followed-up three times until intensive treatment cessation. We assessed physical function limitations using the Activities Scale for Kids© (ASK) and Functional ADL Screen. Secondary outcomes were PA levels using accelerometer and motor performance as measured by MOON-test (motor performance in pediatric oncology-test).

RESULTS

In both groups, ADL accomplishment had significantly increased (p < 0.05). However, no significant between-group differences for ASK outcome were noted. Motor performance was reduced in all motor abilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Both exercise interventions were effective to maintain ADLs and motor performance during intensive treatment. In comparison, regular strength exercise interventions in the course of therapy tended to be more beneficial with regards to muscular explosive and endurance strength.

Exercise and Childhood Cancer-A Historical Review

Simple Summary

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk of developing important adverse effects, but there is growing evidence that physical exercise could help in this regard. The present review summarizes the history of pediatric exercise oncology and the main milestones achieved along the way. Overall, physical exercise appears to be safe and beneficial even during the most aggressive phases of pediatric cancer treatment and can represent an effective coadjuvant therapy for attenuating cancer-related adverse effects.

Abstract

Childhood cancer survivors are at risk of developing important adverse effects, many of which persist for years after the end of treatment. The implementation of interventions aiming at attenuating tumor/treatment-associated adverse effects is therefore a major issue in pediatric oncology, and there is growing evidence that physical exercise could help in this regard. The present review aims to summarize the main milestones achieved in pediatric exercise oncology. For this purpose, we conducted a systematic review of relevant studies written in English in the electronic database PubMed (from inception to 14 August 2021). This review traces the field of pediatric exercise oncology throughout recent history based on three fundamental pillars: (i) exercise during childhood cancer treatment; (ii) exercise during/after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation; and (iii) exercise after childhood cancer treatment. Accumulating evidence––although still preliminary in many cases––supports the safety and potential benefits of regular exercise (with no major contraindications in general) in the childhood cancer continuum, even during the most aggressive phases of treatment. Exercise can indeed represent an effective coadjuvant therapy for attenuating cancer-related adverse effects.

Effects of Exercise Interventions on Immune Function in Children and Adolescents With Cancer and HSCT Recipients - A Systematic Review

Background

Pediatric cancer patients are at high risk for life-threatening infections, therapy associated complications and cancer-related side effects. Exercise is a promising tool to support the immune system and reduce inflammation. The primary objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of exercise interventions in pediatric cancer patients and survivors on the immune system.

Methods

For this systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021194282) we searched four databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, SPORTDiscus) in June 2021. Studies with pediatric patients with oncological disease were included as main criterion. Two authors independently performed data extraction, risk of bias assessment, descriptive analysis and a direction ratio was calculated for all immune cell parameters.

Findings

Of the 1448 detected articles, eight studies with overall n = 400 children and adolescents with cancer and n = 17 healthy children as controls aged 4-19 years met the inclusion criteria. Three randomized, four non-randomized controlled trials and one case series were analyzed descriptively. The exercise interventions had no negative adverse effects on the immune system. Statistically significant results indicated enhanced cytotoxicity through exercise, while changes in immune cell numbers did not differ significantly. Interventions further reduced days of in-hospitalization and reduced the risk of infections. Several beneficial direction ratios in immune parameters were identified favoring the intervention group.

Interpretation

Exercise interventions for pediatric cancer patients and survivors had no negative but promising beneficial effects on the immune system, especially regarding cytotoxicity, but data is very limited. Further research should be conducted on the immunological effects of different training modalities and intensities, during various treatment phases, and for different pediatric cancer types. The direction ratio parameters given here may provide useful guidance for future clinical trials.

Systemic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021194282, Prospero ID: CRD42021194282.

Physical therapy interventions, other than general physical exercise interventions, in children and adolescents before, during and following treatment for cancer

BACKGROUND

Children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer are at high risk of experiencing severe side effects from cancer treatment, many of which are amenable to physical therapy. These side effects can negatively impact a child's quality of life and ability to participate in daily activities (e.g. play and attendance at school). Researchers have evaluated physical therapy interventions in children with cancer and childhood cancer survivors. However, factors such as small sample sizes, varying intervention protocols and differences in cancer types among trials make it difficult to draw conclusions about efficacy.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim of this review was to evaluate the efficacy of physical therapy interventions - with a specific focus on symptom relief and compensation of therapy-related side effects - on the quality of life of children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer. Participants must be between the ages of 0 and 19 years at the time of the physical therapy intervention study. The intervention may occur prior to, during or following cancer treatment. The intervention must be compared to a control group of children receiving standard care, no physical therapy intervention or a comparison intervention. We have excluded general physical exercise studies where the primary aim was to improve physical fitness through aerobic, anaerobic, resistance exercise or combined physical exercise training regimens (i.e. combined aerobic and resistance exercise regimens). We have also intended to record the occurrence of any adverse effects resulting from physical therapy interventions. The secondary aims were to evaluate the efficacy of physical therapy on impairments of pain, peripheral neuropathy, balance, gait, functional abilities and mobility, motor function and performance, range of motion, strength and fatigue.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PEDro, ongoing trial registries, conference proceedings and the reference lists of relevant studies and reviews in March 2020. We also contacted oncology rehabilitation researchers working in paediatrics in March 2020 to identify additional studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

The review included randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cross-over trials, and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) that compared the effects of physical therapy interventions to a control group, and involved children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 0 and 19 years at the time of the intervention. We excluded studies examining general physical exercise interventions where the primary aim was to improve physical fitness through aerobic exercise, resistance exercise or combined physical exercise training regimens (i.e. combined aerobic and resistance exercise regimens).

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane.

MAIN RESULTS

We found no RCTs, cross-over trials or CCTs comparing the effects of physical therapy interventions with a focus on symptom relief and compensation of therapy-related side effects for children and adolescents between the ages of 0 and 19 years.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Results demonstrate that the evidence to date is inadequate to inform clinical practice. Recommendations for future research include the need for large-scale, high-quality designs that examine: (1) paediatric populations with same cancer types; (2) similar intervention protocols; (3) long-term outcomes; (4) physical therapy interventions (e.g. electrophysical modalities and sensory interventions); and (5) outcomes commonly impaired in children with cancer (e.g. peripheral neuropathy and gait deficits).

The international Pediatric Oncology Exercise Guidelines (iPOEG)

Physical activity (PA) and exercise are safe and beneficial for children and adolescents affected by cancer. Yet, this population is not active enough to receive benefits. PA guideline and recommendation statements can support individual behavior and practice change. The purpose of this project was to develop the international Pediatric Oncology Exercise Guidelines (iPOEG), comprised of guideline and recommendation statements, to promote PA among children and adolescents affected by cancer. Guideline development procedures, stakeholder engagement strategies, and the Delphi technique were used. Four online surveys were distributed to the iPOEG network (n = 9 core team members, n = 122 expert consensus committee members). Surveys included closed- and open-ended items informed by a literature synthesis and an in-person meeting. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Consensus was defined as ≥ 80% agreement. Response rates to online surveys ranged from 82% to 91%. The iPOEG network agreed on four guideline and five recommendation statements, which highlight that movement is important for all children and adolescents affected by cancer. These statements are generic in nature as more research is still required to provide specific guidance on the frequency, intensity, time, and type of PA for this population. Nevertheless, the iPOEG statements represent available evidence and expert opinion, collectively suggesting that it is time for children and adolescents affected by cancer to move more.

Physical activity is safe and beneficial for children and adolescents affected by cancer. Yet, most are not active enough to receive benefits. Guideline and recommendation statements can help change individual behavior and practice. To develop such statements, guideline development procedures, stakeholder engagement strategies, and the Delphi technique were used. Four online surveys were distributed to an international network (n = 131 experts). Surveys asked closed- and open-ended questions informed by a literature synthesis and an in-person meeting. Findings from the online surveys resulted in the international Pediatric Oncology Exercise Guidelines statements, which highlight that it is time for children and adolescents affected by cancer to move more.

Synthesizing the literature on physical activity among children and adolescents affected by cancer: evidence for the international Pediatric Oncology Exercise Guidelines (iPOEG)

Physical activity (PA), including exercise, is safe and beneficial for children and adolescents affected by cancer. Yet, no efforts have been made to collate the breadth of review and experimental articles exploring the effects of PA in this cohort. Thus, a scoping review of review and experimental articles reporting on the effects of PA for children and adolescents affected by cancer was undertaken. Review and experimental articles published in English, summarizing or reporting on the effects of PA interventions for children and adolescents affected by cancer were included. Articles were identified through prior literature, systematic searching, reference list scanning, stakeholder engagement, and a database update. Data were extracted, collated, assessed for quality (reviews) or risk of bias (experimental articles), and summarized narratively. A total of 1,380 articles were identified; 20 review and 69 experimental articles were included. Articles explored PA behavior, physical, psychosocial, cognitive, and "other" outcomes. Improvements, no change, or mixed results were reported across the majority of outcomes explored. Two PA-related adverse events (e.g., a treatable injury, fatigue) were described. Included articles varied greatly in quality and risk of bias. Findings confirm that PA for children and adolescents affected by cancer is a rapidly growing field. More adequately powered research, focused on priority outcomes, adopting appropriate study designs, and adhering to reporting standards is required. Addressing these gaps will enable a better understanding of the effects of PA. Nevertheless, the literature confirms moving more is beneficial and safe for children and adolescents affected by cancer.

Functional outcomes of pediatric patients in Short-term Pediatric Rehabilitation Intensive Therapy (SPRINT) while receiving acute oncologic and hematologic care

BACKGROUND

Pediatric patients with oncologic and hematologic diagnoses who experience newly acquired functional deficits during a hospitalization may benefit from intensive therapies. However, acute medical issues or disease treatment plans may prevent a safe transfer to the inpatient rehabilitation unit. Accordingly, Short-term Pediatric Rehabilitation Intensive Therapy (SPRINT), a 2-week inpatient intensive therapy program, was developed for pediatric patients on an acute care service.

OBJECTIVE

To assess functional outcomes of SPRINT participants, adverse events associated with the program, and measures of patients' fatigue, sadness, nervousness, and pain by parents and patients at the start and end of SPRINT.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTINGS

Hematology-Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant units at regional pediatric tertiary care hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Eighteen pediatric patients (50% female, age 1.9-17.8 years) participated in SPRINT, and 11 parents and 4 children completed questionnaires.

INTERVENTIONS

Not applicable.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Functional outcomes of SPRINT participants measured by Caregiver Assistance section of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI), adverse events identified on chart review, and inquiry of participants' symptoms before and after SPRINT with a questionnaire.

RESULTS

Common diagnoses included leukemia and lymphoma (N = 9, 50%) and central nervous system tumor (N = 6, 33%). Deconditioning (N = 18, 100%) and peripheral neuropathy (N = 8, 44.4%) were common rehabilitation diagnoses. Significant gains were found in tasks in self-care and mobility domains of PEDI (all P < .05), as well as functional expression in social function domain (P = .03). No adverse events related to SPRINT participation were identified. There was no significant difference between pre- and post-SPRINT questionnaire responses.

CONCLUSIONS

SPRINT is an alternative model for intensive rehabilitation care delivery. Data suggested that SPRINT participation was safe and resulted in significant gains in mobility, self-care, and functional expression for pediatric patients with hematologic and oncologic diagnoses while receiving acute care. No difference was found in questionnaire responses after SPRINT participation.

A sport room within the paediatric oncology ward

There is a growing interest in physical activity (PA) in paediatric oncology. Overall studies in children with cancer have reported good adherence, positive trends in health status, and no adverse events. Thus, a general PA program should be offered to paediatric oncology inpatients. Anyhow, the absence of a dedicated place to perform PA sessions beyond the paediatric oncology department corridors and patients' room has been identified as one of the major limiting factors. We do believe "in the ward" sport rooms should be further implemented and evaluated in paediatric oncology departments worldwide.

The core components of cardio-oncology rehabilitation

The increased efficacy of cancer therapy has resulted in greater cancer survival and increasing number of people with cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The sharing of risk factors, the bidirectional relationship between cancer and cardiovascular diseases and the cardiotoxic effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are the cause of the rapid expansion of cardio-oncology. All strategies to preserve cardiovascular health and mitigate the negative effect of cancer therapy, by reducing the cardiovascular risk, must be pursued to enable the timely and complete delivery of anticancer therapy and to achieve the longest remission of the disease. Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation is an easy-to-use model, even in cancer care, and is the basis of Cardio-Oncology REhabilitation (CORE), an exercise-based multi-component intervention. In addition, CORE, besides using the rationale and knowledge of cardiac rehabilitation, can leverage the network of cardiac rehabilitation services to offer to cancer patients exercise programs, control of risk factors, psychological support, and nutrition counseling. The core components of CORE will be discussed, describing the beneficial effect on cardiorespiratory fitness, quality of life, psychological and physical well-being, and weight management. Furthermore, particular attention will be paid to how CORE can counterbalance the negative effect of therapies in those at heightened cardiovascular risk after a cancer diagnosis. Barriers for implementation, including personal, family, social and of the health care system barriers for a widespread diffusion of the CORE will also be discussed. Finally, there will be a call-to-action, for randomized clinical trials that can test the impact of CORE, on morbidity and mortality.

Physical activity for pediatric cancer survivors: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Purpose

To collate evidence and evaluate the effects of physical activity interventions on physical activity level among pediatric cancer survivors who had completed active cancer treatment.

Methods

Relevant published studies were identified in May 2020 via five databases and reference checking. Searches were limited to randomized controlled trials or controlled clinical trials, published in English involving pediatric cancer survivors aged 18 years or below. Interventions were related to promote physical activity among the survivors. Included studies were assessed using the revised version of the Cochrane’s Risk of Bias Tool.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials (620 pediatric cancer survivors and 53 caregivers of pediatric cancer survivors) were included. All studies investigated interventions for pediatric cancer survivors to increase their physical activity level. The interventions used varied across the eight included studies: three mHealth—medical and public health practice supported by mobile devices; two eHealth—the use of information and communication technologies to improve health care; two adventure-based training; and one educational program. Measures of physical activity level also varied: five used various objective measurements (i.e., accelerometer, pedometer, multisensory activity monitor); three used different self-reported questionnaires. Owing to high variability of the interventions and measures, it was impossible to perform meta-analysis. Overall, eHealth and mHealth interventions showed effectiveness and feasibility to promote physical activity among pediatric cancer survivors.

Conclusions

eHealth and mHealth interventions appear to be increasingly important strategies to promote physical activity among pediatric cancer survivors.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Future larger-scale studies using a core-set of assessment tools are warranted to further promote regular physical activity in pediatric cancer survivors.

Determinants of impairments in functioning, fatigue, and participation ability in pediatric brain tumor survivors

Background

Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) experience disease- and treatment-related sequelae. We aimed to investigate the occurrence of participation limitations, impairments in functioning, fatigue, and the association between patient, tumor- and treatment-related factors and these outcomes.

Methods

Children (4–18 years) after treatment for a brain tumor between 2005 and 2014 at the Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands, were eligible. The parent-reported Child and Family Follow-up Survey developed to measure participation and impairments in functioning in youth with acquired brain injury, was used. Fatigue was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Associations with patient, tumor- and treatment-related factors were explored using univariable analyses.

Results

Ninety-one PBTS (median age: 11.3 years [range: 9.5–14.1], time since treatment: 3.9 years [range: 4–6.2]) were included (response rate: 55%). Participation limitations were reported in 53% and were associated with impairments in functioning (15–67%) (P ≤ .01) and fatigue (P ≤ .03).

Parent- and child-reported fatigue was increased compared to normative values (P ≤ .02). History of hydrocephalus was associated with increased fatigue (P ≤ .04). Younger age at diagnosis and longer time since diagnosis were associated with impairments in functioning and cognitive fatigue (P &lt; .05).

Participation limitations, impairments in functioning and fatigue were similar in PBTS who were &lt;3 or ≥3 years since completion of treatment.

Conclusion

More than half of PBTS reported limited participation ability, which is associated with impairments in functioning and fatigue. The complication hydrocephalus seems to lead to more fatigue. Participation limitations, impairments in functioning and fatigue appear not to diminish in the longer term.

Adverse Events During Supervised Exercise Interventions in Pediatric Oncology-A Nationwide Survey

Objectives: Exercise interventions during and after treatment for pediatric cancer are associated with beneficial physical, psychological, and social effects. However, valid data about adverse events (AEs) of such interventions have rarely been evaluated. This retrospective study evaluates AEs that occurred during supervised oncological exercise programs for pediatric cancer patients and survivors. Methods: This Germany-wide study used a self-administered online survey focusing on general program characteristics and AEs retrospectively for 2019. The questionnaire included (a) basic data on the offered exercise program, (b) AEs with consequences (Grade 2-5) that occurred in 2019 during an exercise intervention, (c) number of Grade 1 AEs, (d) safety procedures as part of the exercise programs, and (e) possibility to give feedback and describe experience with AEs in free text. Results: Out of 26 eligible exercise programs, response rate of program leaders was 92.3% (n = 24). Representatives working for Universities (n = 6), rehabilitation clinics (n = 3), acute cancer clinics (n = 12), and activity camps (n = 3) participated. In total, 35,110 exercise interventions with varying duration were recorded for 2019. Six AEs with consequences (Grade 2-3) occurred during exercise interventions after cancer treatment resulting in an incidence of 17 per 100,000 exercise interventions (0.017%). No life-threatening consequences or death were reported and no serious AE occurred during acute cancer treatment. Grade 1 AE occurred with a frequency of 983, corresponding to an incidence of 2,800 per 100,000 interventions (2.8%). Most frequent Grade 1 AE were muscle soreness, circulatory problems, and abdominal pain. The most frequent preventive safety procedures at the institutions were regular breaks, consultations with the medical treatment team, and material selection with low injury potential. Conclusions: Supervised exercise interventions for pediatric cancer patients and survivors seem to be safe and AEs with consequences comparatively rare when compared to general childhood population data. Occurrence of grade 1 AEs was common, however, causality was probably not evident between AEs and the exercise intervention. Future research should standardize assessment of AEs in clinical practice and research, and prospectively register and evaluate AEs that occur in the context of exercise interventions in pediatric cancer patients and survivors.

Childhood Cancer Survivorship: Daily Challenges

Survivors of childhood cancer are at risk of experiencing fatigue, pain, lower levels of physical activity, increased engagement in risky health behavior, and poor social adjustment, after finishing treatment. Risks are more pronounced for survivors of specific diagnoses or receiving specific treatment protocols. Interventions to address these outcomes are in their infancy. Future research should focus on exploring the antecedents and consequences of these outcomes. In the meantime, researchers and cancer centers should attempt to provide high-quality and accessible health information to survivors through various media outlets to encourage healthy behaviors.

Physical exercise effects on metastasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis in animal cancer models

Physical exercise is considered a well-tolerated adjuvant therapy to mitigate cancer-related side effects, but its impact on metastasis is unclear. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize the evidence on the effects of exercise on metastasis in animal cancer models. A systematic search was conducted to identify controlled studies in animals analyzing the impact of exercise interventions on any marker of metastasis incidence or severity. The pooled mean differences (PMD) were calculated for those endpoints for which a minimum of three studies used the same assessment method. We also calculated the pooled odds ratio (OR) of metastases. Twenty-six articles were included in the systematic review, of which 12 could be meta-analyzed. Exercise training in murine cancer models did not significantly modify the number of metastatic foci (PMD = - 3.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] - 8.32, 1.97; p = 0.23), the weight of metastatic tumors (PMD = - 0.03; 95% CI - 0.10, 0.04; p = 0.41), or the risk of developing metastasis (OR = 0.64; 95% CI 0.10, 4.12; p = 0.64). These findings suggest that exercise has no overall influence on any marker of cancer metastasis incidence or severity in animal models. However, the wide methodological heterogeneity observed between studies might be taken into account and the potential exercise effects on metastasis development remain to be determined in pediatric tumors.

Tailored Exercise during Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Hospitalization in Children with Cancer: A Prospective Cohort Study

We assessed the clinical effects of a supervised exercise (aerobic + resistance) intervention performed during inpatient hospitalization for pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Patients were placed in an exercise (n = 65 (47 and 18 with allogeneic (allo-) and autologous (auto-) HSCT, respectively)) or a control (n = 53 (39 and 14)) group. Exercise interventions were performed in isolated hospital patient rooms. Patients were followed-up from the beginning of the conditioning phase up to 6 years. We assessed survival, risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) or graft failure (primary outcomes), and engraftment kinetics, supportive care, toxicity profile, and immune reconstitution for auto-HSCT and allo-HSCT. The exercise intervention was safe and did not affect the risk of mortality, acute/chronic GvHD, or graft failure (all p > 0.05). No between-group differences (p > 0.05) were found for the remainder of clinical endpoints, except for a reduced number of total and viral infections in the exercise group after allo-HSCT (unadjusted p = 0.005 for both total and viral infections, and adjusted p = 0.023 and 0.083, respectively). In conclusion, exercise performed during inpatient hospitalization for pediatric HSCT is safe and well tolerated during both auto and allo-HSCT and tends to decrease the risk of infection after allo-HSCT. These findings provide additional support to the notion that a multidisciplinary approach (i.e., including the work of exercise specialists) is suitable in the management of children undergoing HSCT. Further studies are needed to determine whether applying a different training stimulus (notably, higher exercise intensities) exerts positive effects on HSCT prognosis in these patients.

EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL EXERCISE DURING HOSPITALIZATION IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH CANCER: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Objective:

To identify the effects of exercise programs during hospitalization on children and adolescents with cancer.

Data source:

This is a systematic review, carried out in PubMed/ Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information (BIREME), and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro). We selected studies that included children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer (solid or hematologic) and submitted to exercise protocols during hospitalization. Studies involving patients with other pathologies or with a medical contraindication for exercise were excluded. We used the following search strategy: Neoplasm OR Leukemia OR Cancer OR Tumor OR Medical Oncology AND Hospitalization OR Inpatient Care Units OR Intrahospital AND Exercise. The methodological quality of the studies was analyzed by the PEDro scale.

Data synthesis:

Among the 626 articles found, only 9 fulfilled the inclusion criteria, obtaining a regular methodological quality. The samples had 172 participants, aged 4 to 18 years. Only 6 studies presented both intervention group and control group. The intervention group received strength, aerobic, and muscle stretching exercises, and games, among others. The control group received the standard treatment. The studies varied regarding time, frequency, intensity, and type of exercise. Most studies showed an increase in muscle strength (4/5), followed by an improvement in physical fitness (2/3) and functional capacity (2/4). No adverse events were reported during the interventions. The methodological quality was considered regular.

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that. during hospitalization of children and adolescents with cancer, exercise improves muscle strength, physical fitness, and functionality.

Motor Performance in Children Diagnosed with Cancer: A Longitudinal Observational Study

Children with cancer are dealing with different side and long-term effects caused by cancer and its treatments, like vinca-alkaloids, which may have negative effects on motor performance. However, the affected areas of motor performance (aiming and catching, balance, manual dexterity) and the differences in these areas between boys and girls and diagnoses are not frequently reported in a longitudinal design. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate how motor performance changes over the course of cancer treatment. The study was conducted with 3-to 16-year-old children with cancer (N = 36) in 2013-2017. The five assessment points were 0, 2, 6, 12 and 30 months from diagnosis. Movement-ABC2 was used to assess motor performance. We found that aiming and catching skills decreased significantly during the follow-up (p < 0.05). Balance was affected at the 2-month measurement point (p < 0.05) and more in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia than in children with other cancer diagnoses (p < 0.05). Girls performed better than boys in manual dexterity at 6, 12 and 30 months (p < 0.05, p < 0.05, p < 0.05, respectively). Individual monitoring of motor performance with standardized tests and physical activity/exercise programs during and after treatment are needed.

Reply: Letter to the Editor: Exercise Interventions and Cardiovascular Health in Childhood Cancer: A Meta-Analysis

Dear EditorWe sincerely appreciate the nice comments by Drs. P.V. da Costa Ghignatti and R. Pereira de Lima 1 concerning our recent meta-analysis assessing the effects of physical exercise interventions on cardiovascular endpoints in childhood cancer survivors 2. They are quite right to remain that even non-significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) might be clinically relevant. Indeed, we still do not know if CRF increments of a theoretically low magnitude (i. e., <1 metabolic equivalent) might have a prognostic value in the context of pediatric cancer and treatment-associated cardiotoxicity. We also agree that unsupervised exercise interventions are unlikely to be as effective as tailored programs, especially because the latter allow for intensity to being adequately controlled and thus gradually increased. It is indeed our opinion, after long years of experience working with children with cancer as well as with other debilitated clinical populations, that there is always room for physiological improvement and ideally loads should be gradually improved instead of remaining stable.

Body Composition in Pediatric Solid Tumors: State of the Science and Future Directions

Sarcopenia (severe skeletal muscle wasting) and sarcopenic obesity (skeletal muscle wasting in the setting of excess fat) have been increasingly recognized as important prognostic indicators in adult oncology. Unfavorable changes in lean and adipose tissue masses manifest early in therapy and are associated with altered chemotherapy metabolism as well as increased treatment-related morbidity and mortality. Existing literature addresses the role of body composition in children with hematologic malignancies; however, data is lacking among solid tumor patients. Advances in imaging techniques for quantification of tissue compartments potentiate further investigation in this highly understudied area of pediatric oncology. The following review presents an in-depth discussion of body composition analysis and its potential role in the care of pediatric solid tumor patients. Integration of body tissue measurement into standard practice has broad clinical implications and may improve quality of life and treatment outcomes in this at-risk population.

Oncology and Cardiac Rehabilitation: An Underrated Relationship

Cancer and cardiovascular diseases are globally the leading causes of mortality and morbidity. These conditions are closely related, beyond that of sharing many risk factors. The term bidirectional relationship indicates that cardiovascular diseases increase the likelihood of getting cancer and vice versa. The biological and biochemical pathways underlying this close relationship will be analyzed. In this new overlapping scenario, physical activity and exercise are proven protective behaviors against both cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Many observational studies link an increase in physical activity to a reduction in either the development or progression of cancer, as well as to a reduction in risk in cardiovascular diseases, a non-negligible cause of death for long-term cancer survivors. Exercise is an effective tool for improving cardio-respiratory fitness, quality of life, psychological wellbeing, reducing fatigue, anxiety and depression. Finally, it can counteract the toxic effects of cancer therapy. The protection obtained from physical activity and exercise will be discussed in the various stages of the cancer continuum, from diagnosis, to adjuvant therapy, and from the metastatic phase to long-term effects. Particular attention will be paid to the shelter against chemotherapy, radiotherapy, cardiovascular risk factors or new onset cardiovascular diseases. Cardio-Oncology Rehabilitation is an exercise-based multi-component intervention, starting from the model of Cardiac Rehabilitation, with few modifications, to improve care and the prognosis of a patient's cancer. The network of professionals dedicated to Cardiac Rehabilitation is a ready-to-use resource, for implementing Cardio-Oncology Rehabilitation.

The impact of cancer on theory of planned behavior measures and physical activity levels during the first weeks following cancer diagnosis in children

BACKGROUND

The theory of planned behavior (TPB) is used to document children's health behaviors linked to their physical activity. The TPB model and its components have been applied to comprehend the adoption of physical activity along informational and motivational parameters. Thus, this exploratory study aims to assess the evolution of children's physical activity levels (MVLPA) during the first weeks of their cancer, in addition to documenting the evolution of the TPB measures, self-reported fitness, and self-esteem in the physical domain to better understand children's physical activity behavior.

METHODS

A total of 16 children (8 boys and 8 girls) with cancer answered psychosocial questionnaires at the diagnosis of cancer (time 1) and at 6 to 8 weeks (time 2) to assess the TPB measures, self-reported fitness, self-esteem in the physical domain, and their daily physical activities.

RESULTS

A significant decrease of 41.2 min/days of daily MVLPA was observed between the time at cancer diagnosis (50.5 ± 32.8 min/days) and 6 to 8 weeks after the first interview (9.3 ± 9.1 min/days). We found that the time after the diagnosis of cancer negatively impacted children's TPB measures (mean in attitude, injunctive norms, identity, facilitating factors, self-confidence, and intention) and MVLPA levels. The TPB model explains 40% of the variance in MVLPA by the injunctive norms during the first weeks following cancer diagnosis in children.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study highlight the negative impacts of cancer on children's TPB measures, self-reported fitness, and self-esteem in the physical domain and self-reported MVLPA levels over 4 to 6 weeks following the diagnosis. These findings help to better understand the effect of cancer diagnosis on children's physical activity behavior.

The effect of exercise and motor interventions on physical activity and motor outcomes during and after medical intervention for children and adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) experience detrimental effects on motor function during and after chemotherapy. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effect of exercise and motor interventions on physical activity and motor outcomes of children with ALL during and after chemotherapy.

METHODS

Ten databases were searched. Nineteen studies were included: 11 randomized clinical trials (RCT), 2 controlled clinical trials (CCT), and 6 cohort studies.

RESULTS

Participants included 508 children with ALL. Between-group results from RCTs and CCTs supported that exercise and motor intervention improved: fatigue during acute chemotherapy; physical activity, range of motion (ROM), strength, bone mineral density, aerobic capacity, and fatigue during maintenance chemotherapy; functional mobility, ROM, strength, and aerobic capacity during post-treatment survivorship; and participation, physical activity, ROM, strength, and coordination during multiple-phase interventions.

CONCLUSION

Low quality evidence supports the efficacy of motor and exercise interventions for children and adolescents with ALL.

Sport Medicine in the Prevention and Management of Cancer

Physical inactivity is a major concern in cancer patients despite the established preventative and therapeutic effects of regular physical exercise for this patient group. Sport not only plays an important role in supporting the development and maintenance of a physically active lifestyle but also is increasingly used as a health promotion activity in various populations. Nevertheless, the potential of sport as an effective strategy in the prevention and management of cancer has gained little attention. Based on the scant evidence to date, participation of cancer patients in supervised, well-tailored sport programs appears to be safe and feasible and is associated with an array of physical and psychological benefits. We propose that sport participation may serve as an alternative strategy in the prevention of cancer and sport medicine in the management of cancer. As with the traditional exercise modes, benefits derived from sport participation will be dependent on the sport undertaken and the physical/physiological, motor, and cognitive demands required. To this end, further work is required to develop a solid evidence base in this field so that targeted sport participation can be recommended for cancer patients.

Paediatric cardio-oncology: epidemiology, screening, prevention, and treatment

With 5-year survival of children with cancer exceeding 80% in developed countries, premature cardiovascular disease is now a major cause of early morbidity and mortality. In addition to the acute and chronic cardiotoxic effects of anthracyclines, related chemotherapeutics, and radiation, a growing number of new molecular targeted agents may also have detrimental effects on the cardiovascular system. Survivors of childhood cancer also may have earlier development of conventional cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and diabetes, which further increase their risk of serious cardiovascular disease. This review will examine the epidemiology of acute and chronic cardiotoxicity relevant to paediatric cancer patients, including genetic risk factors. We will also provide an overview of current screening recommendations, including the evidence regarding both imaging (e.g. echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging) and blood-based biomarkers. Various primary and secondary prevention strategies will also be discussed, primarily in relation to anthracycline-related cardiomyopathy. Finally, we review the available evidence related to the management of systolic and diastolic dysfunction in paediatric cancer patients and childhood cancer survivors.